Liverpool manager Arne Slot could still be in the dugout for the Reds’ Premier League match against Wolves this weekend despite receiving a two-match touchline ban for his red card during the Merseyside derby.
Liverpool were on course to extend their lead at the top of the Premier League to nine points at Everton on Wednesday, but James Tarkowski struck a stunning volley to level in the eighth minute of stoppage time.
Abdoulaye Doucouré’s wild celebrations in front of the away fans sparked a furious reaction, with Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones confronting Doucouré, leading to the dismissal of both men.
With some supporters on the pitch, stewards and police became involved before Slot and assistant Sipke Hulshoff were also sent off by referee Michael Oliver.
The Premier League initially announced on its website that Slot had been handed a two-match touchline ban.
“Liverpool head coach Arne Slot was dismissed at the end of the Merseyside derby for using offensive, insulting, or abusive language,” the league said in a statement. “He is handed a two-match touchline ban as a result.”
However, the statement was later deleted. It is understood that the Football Association (FA) must review Oliver’s report before making a final decision, which may not come before Sunday’s match at Anfield.
Slot has already served a one-match touchline ban earlier this season after accumulating three yellow cards. Meanwhile, Doucouré and Jones will both serve one-match bans.
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk admitted the frustration of conceding so late at Goodison Park but insisted the team must move on quickly.
“That hurt and should hurt for each one of us, but it is the reality,” said the Dutch international.
“You have two things you can do – you can dwell on it and stay angry about it, or you can take it on board, start the recovery, and be ready for Wolves because that will be a difficult test again. I think that’s the best thing to do.”
Join BusinessDay whatsapp Channel, to stay up to date
Open In Whatsapp
